EThekwini Municipality is accelerating its transition to clean energy through the rollout of the Municipal Energy Generation Programme (MEGP), an innovative initiative designed to power key Municipal facilities with affordable, low-carbon electricity.
The programme will commence with a flagship project at one of Durban’s most iconic destinations, uShaka Marine World.
Celebrating its 21st anniversary last year, uShaka Marine World remains KwaZulu-Natal’s leading paid tourism attraction, supporting approximately 725 jobs and welcoming millions of visitors each year.
However, like many large public facilities, it faces escalating electricity costs, currently estimated at R39.5 million annually, with tariffs continuing to rise significantly year on year.
Through the MEGP, uShaka Marine World will harness Durban’s abundant solar energy resources through the installation of solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage infrastructure.
The system will enable the facility to generate and store its own electricity, reducing dependence on the national grid while ensuring the uninterrupted operation of critical services, including aquarium life-support systems.
The shift to self-generated renewable energy is expected to deliver significant financial and environmental benefits.
Electricity costs are projected to decrease by approximately one-third from the outset, with total savings expected to exceed R1 billion over the lifespan of the project.
In addition, the initiative is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 18 000 tonnes annually, while creating opportunities to generate additional revenue through participation in carbon credit markets.
Importantly, the project will not place any financial burden on the Municipality or ratepayers.
Through partnerships established under the Africa Solar Belt Programme, private sector investors will finance, build, own and operate the infrastructure.
UShaka Marine World will purchase electricity at a lower, fixed tariff, with the option for the City to acquire the assets at the end of the agreement period.
Beyond financial and environmental gains, the project will strengthen energy security by ensuring uninterrupted operations during load-shedding and power disruptions.
It is also expected to create local employment opportunities and support skills development within the renewable energy sector.
As a proven model for sustainable infrastructure development, the MEGP will be expanded to other high-energy municipal facilities, including the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, Durban Fresh Produce Market and wastewater treatment plants.
These projects will position eThekwini as a leader in municipal renewable energy adoption and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The initiative aligns with the Municipality’s broader climate action commitments, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and sourcing 40 percent of its electricity from renewable energy by 2030.
This milestone marks a significant step in transforming how the City powers its assets, delivering cleaner energy, reduced operating costs, enhanced energy resilience and a more sustainable future for all residents.
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